Best Hardwood Flooring For When Your Dogs and Cats Want To Play
When it’s time to replace your floors, you carefully consider a lot of things.
You might consider the cost. There’s so much more to it than the cost of the materials. You’ll pay for the installation process, removing the old floor, and ensuring the subfloor is in good condition. You might have to replace woodwork for a cohesive look. And let’s not forget the cost of time – some flooring can take weeks to order and be installed.
Or maybe you’re more of a hands-on homeowner. You care about functionality. You want a durable flooring material that stands up over time to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. You expect it to hold up well, be easy to clean, and be easy to repair.
Are you making your home more eco-friendly? Maybe you’re researching green flooring options, caring about sustainability and whether the flooring materials are recyclable or made from renewable resources. Longevity is a big deal, because you expect to get the most out of the flooring material. You want to do your part and be a responsible homeowner.
What about comfort? You have a family that spends a lot of time indoors. You want flooring that feels comfortable underfoot, especially where you spend your time standing or walking around. (Like the kitchen or your home office.) And your pets are your BFFs. You care about providing them a comfortable place to lie and sleep. You worry about their joints as they run and play throughout your home.
Flooring is influenced by a lot of things. But for pet owners – if you have dogs and cats ready to play, flooring means a whole lot more.
Marrying Your Hardwood Flooring Desires with Dog and Cat Ownership
As you consider your options, you might carefully weave together a flooring plan. You want hardwood, but aren’t sure if it makes sense for pets. You care about classic good looks, but durability matters overall. You know what you like, but are nervous if it matches your lifestyle.
And that’s where many homeowners fall in their search for the perfect hardwood flooring option.
We get it. With dogs and cats, you want:
- Scratch resistance – durable materials mean it will withstand the constant scratches from pets walking and running around.
- Stain resistance – even the most well-trained pet will have accidents from time to time.
- Ease of cleaning – from dragging dirt in from outside to pet hair to daily spills and accidents, you don’t want the worry that comes from fussy flooring.
- Traction – if your dog or cat jumps and climbs, injury can be a real problem on a slippery floor.
- Water resistance – back to those spills; they happen. What could be better than a water-resistant floor where you simply wipe moisture away?
- Allergen control – pet dander may be a concern for some in your family. The right flooring can keep it at bay.
Do you find yourself saying yes, YES! Do all of these speak to you? Are you looking for guidance in selecting hardwood flooring? We have some options for you.
Tile Flooring
Let’s start with tile floor. Yes, tile can imitate hardwood. You’ll be surprised at how realistic it looks.
What’s not to love about tile? Tile is incredibly tough and can handle just about anything life throws at it. Whether it’s heavy foot traffic, kids running around, or pets skidding across the floor, tile stands up to it all without getting scratched or dented like real hardwood might.
Now, if you’re worried about moisture – maybe you have a busy kitchen, a bathroom that sees a lot of action, or even a basement prone to dampness – tile is a lifesaver. Unlike hardwood, tile is completely water-resistant, making it an ideal choice for any room where spills or humidity might be a concern.
When it comes to maintenance, tile is a dream. It’s super easy to clean with just a quick sweep and mop. Plus, it doesn’t require the refinishing that hardwood does, saving you both time and effort in the long run.
When you’re choosing tile, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, go for high-quality porcelain or ceramic tiles. Porcelain is especially durable and great for high-traffic areas. Look for tiles with a matte or textured finish if you want them to look more like real wood. Glossy finishes can sometimes look less authentic.
Size and shape matter too. Opt for tiles that mimic the size and shape of real wood planks. Long, narrow tiles can give you that classic hardwood floor look. Don’t forget about grout color either. Matching the grout closely to the tile can create a seamless look, enhancing the hardwood effect.
Many homeowners are installing tile and love the results.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Maybe tile isn’t your thing. Maybe you’ve been looking at luxury vinyl, and are excited about the opportunities it presents. We get it – we love it too.
Let’s talk about durability. Luxury vinyl planks are tough and designed to withstand a lot of wear and tear. They’re scratch-resistant, so if you have pets or kids, you don’t have to worry about claw marks or toy scuffs. They also handle heavy foot traffic very well, making them perfect for busy households.
Water resistance is another big plus. Some LVP materials are completely waterproof, which makes it an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, or basements. Unlike traditional wood, you won’t have to worry about water damage, warping, or staining. If this is a big deal to you, just ask. We can point you in the right direction.
Cost is often a major consideration, and here’s where LVP really shines. It offers the luxurious look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Plus, it’s easier and often cheaper to install, especially if you opt for a click-lock system that can be a DIY project. Over time, its durability and low maintenance costs make it a very economical choice.
Aesthetically, LVP is amazing. Thanks to advanced printing technologies, these planks can closely mimic the look and texture of real hardwood. You can get everything from rustic oak to sleek maple, complete with realistic grain patterns and textures. It’s a great way to achieve the elegant look of wood flooring without the high cost and upkeep.
When selecting LVP, here are a few things to keep in mind. First, choose a high-quality product. Look for thicker planks with a durable wear layer; this ensures longevity and better performance. The wear layer protects against scratches and dents, so the thicker, the better.
If your gut is pushing you toward luxury vinyl planks, trust it. We know many homeowners who love it.
Engineered Hardwood Flooring
You love hardwood. You really want hardwood. If this speaks to you, but you’re still concerned about how well it will work with your dogs and cats, engineered hardwood is the choice for you.
First, let’s talk about durability. Engineered hardwood is designed to be more stable than traditional hardwood. It consists of multiple layers of wood bonded together, with a top layer of natural hardwood veneer. This construction makes it less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of warping and cracking. It’s perfect for areas with fluctuating conditions, like basements and kitchens.
Water resistance is another advantage of engineered hardwood. While it’s not completely waterproof like tile or luxury vinyl, it is more resistant to moisture compared to solid hardwood. This makes it a viable option for rooms where you might worry about occasional spills or humidity.
When it comes to maintenance, engineered hardwood is relatively easy to care for. Regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping will keep it looking great. Unlike traditional hardwood, it doesn’t need to be refinished as often, but if you choose a product with a thick enough top layer, it can be sanded and refinished a few times to extend its life.
Cost-wise, engineered hardwood offers a middle ground between solid hardwood and more budget-friendly options like luxury vinyl planks. It provides the authentic look of wood without the high price tag of solid hardwood. Plus, it’s easier installation can save you money on labor costs.
Aesthetically, engineered hardwood offers the same beautiful, natural look as solid hardwood because the top layer is real wood. You can find it in a wide variety of wood species, finishes, and plank sizes, allowing you to achieve the exact look you want. Whether you prefer the classic appeal of oak or the modern elegance of maple, there’s an engineered hardwood option for you.
When selecting engineered hardwood, there are a few key factors to consider. First, pay attention to the thickness of the veneer layer. A thicker veneer allows for more refinishing over the years, extending the life of your floor. Aim for at least a 3mm top layer if possible.
Consider the core construction as well. High-quality engineered hardwood will have a core made of plywood or high-density fiberboard (HDF), which provides better stability and durability compared to cheaper options.
And don’t forget to consider the finish. Engineered hardwoods come in a variety of finishes, from smooth and glossy to hand-scraped and matte. Choose a finish that complements your home’s style and meets your practical needs in terms of maintenance and durability.
What’s Your Choice?
Installing new flooring is supposed to be fun and exciting. Don’t hold back because you’re worried about your dogs and cats. There are options for homeowners with pets. In fact, we think even people without pets will do well with any of these options.
Have more questions? Stop by today. We can help you discover the best hardwood flooring to suit your lifestyle and needs.